The All-in-One Cure: Making Homemade Kombucha
Image Credit: Homemade Kombucha (Photo Credit: Unsplash)

Kombucha, a fermented tea that's being consumed since around 200 B.C., has travelled a long way from Northeast China to the food aisles of every supermarket across the globe. The reason it has made it this far is because of its numerous health benefits. It is generally classified as a functional beverage as it is non-alcoholic and full of vitamins, amino acids and other essential micro and macronutrients. Here are some of its many benefits.


  • Source of Probiotic


Kombucha is typically made by fermentation of yeast, bacteria, sugar in green or black tea. The fermentation introduces acetic acid and lactic acid which have a probiotic function. Such probiotics provide the gut with healthy bacteria which improve digestion, 

reduce inflammation and even lead to weight loss. 


  • Antioxidant-Rich 


Kombucha is loaded with good antioxidants that protect your body cells against harmful chain reactions of free radicals. A diet rich in antioxidants-containing foods and beverages reduces the risk of heart diseases, certain cancers, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s disease.


  • Kills Bacteria


This miracle beverage is rich in tea phenols and acetic acid which attributes to destroying undesirable bacteria in the gut. After all, a healthy gut makes for a healthy body.


  • Reduces health risks


The drink is associated with reducing chances of heart disease, managing type 2 diabetes, and is claimed to protect again certain types of cancers. 



How to make Kombucha at home?


In a saucepan, bring 3 1/2 quarts of water to boil and add a cup of sugar, and mix till it dissolves. Add two tablespoons of loose tea of your choice and allow it to cool. 

Strain the tea, and pour into jars. Add a starter SCOBY (you can purchase it from a health store), and allow it to rest in the jars for 7-10 days. The Kombucha might develop a white layer, but that’s quite normal. After the fermentation period, strain, chill and serve.


Homemade kombucha is less expensive than store-bought and allows for much customization and control of sugar. Be sure to try kombucha, it is an excellent investment for better gut health.